Magong JinGuiTou Fort (Under Renovation, Not Open to Public) Introduction
Located on the west side of Penghu Island, at the extreme west of Magong Peninsula, southwest of the southwest gate of Magong City and on the top of Turtle Head Mountain (now referred to as Magong Bay) in the southwest, it is diagonally opposite to the eastern and western slopes of Shetou Mountain, formerly known as "Snake Head," in the old Dasyan Island area, both guarding the entrance to Magong Port. Since ancient times, the western tide of Magong Bay (Western Port Fort) has served as the right flank of Magong, opposing the left flank of Fengguiwei with its watchtower and fortifications. The main architectural form of the Jin Kuitou Fort is the vaulted barracks, which also represent a significant feature of the coastal fortifications in the Penghu area. The barracks are constructed with thick walls made of stone, approximately 110-115cm thick, serving as the foundation for the two side walls. The walls are capped with a dome made of red bricks in an arch shape; the thickness of the brick arch cannot be entirely discerned from the intact site, but it generally comprises four layers. To protect the brick surface and prevent water seepage, a layer of mixed soil is applied on top, forming a rounded convex roof. The surface of this mixed soil layer is then coated with tar for outer protection. Due to long-term use, the surface inevitably experiences loosening and cracking, necessitating the reapplication of a waterproof tar layer, followed by a layer of cement mortar for outer protection. If structural privacy is needed, a thick oil-based paint (commonly in deep green) is applied, establishing a standard practice for this fort. The outer walls and the edges of door and window openings are typically painted deep green, while the interior walls are painted white to make the enclosed spaces feel brighter. Currently, the barracks have been partitioned into variously sized spaces due to usage. The longest barrack (Building U) on the southeast side is used as the company leader's room, armory, officer's room, guidance officer's room, and dormitory. The shortest barrack (Building Y) on the northwest side serves as a rest area, sergeant's dormitory, and carrier platform. The barrack facing the sea (Building V) is utilized as the deputy company leader's room, squad leader's room, material storeroom, administrative room, and paint storeroom. While the interior of these spaces remains in relatively good condition, many of the wooden doors and windows have changed from their original appearance and have added screens; the walls are cluttered with electrical conduits and lights, necessitating organization or restoration to their former state. The most serious current issue is the roof, which has severe surface cracking, and the protective layer has gradually slipped off, requiring careful digging and proper repair from the waterproof layer; the cluttered piping on the roof also requires coordinated repair and improvement. Additionally, there is an exhaust port at the apex of the roof, which is either a rudimentary iron cover or made from hollow bricks; it should be replaced with copper during roof work to prevent rust. If the environment permits, it is advisable to investigate and document the original partitions in the interior and draw plans to prevent the loss of archaeological sites during future alterations.
